The dispute over the extension of Jharkhand DGP Anurag Gupta’s tenure has intensified, with the Accountant General’s (AG) Office agreeing to issue him a provisional pay slip—but with strict conditions. The AG has stated that the salary disbursed may be recovered if a court later declares his appointment unconstitutional or in violation of service rules.
Salary With Strings Attached
The AG’s office decision came after the Jharkhand Home Department formally requested a pay slip for Gupta, arguing that his extension was valid under the recently notified Jharkhand DGP and IG Selection & Appointment Rules, 2025 (effective from January 8, 2025). The Home Department maintains that Gupta was appointed for a two-year term starting February 2, 2025.
However, the Central Government has rejected this extension, asserting that Gupta retired on April 30, 2025, upon turning 60, in line with All India Services (AIS) Rules. The Centre contends that the state’s action defies Supreme Court guidelines, particularly the 2006 Prakash Singh judgment which regulates the appointment of DGPs.
Legal Battle Brewing
The standoff has sparked a legal tussle. On April 22, 2025, the Centre formally notified the Jharkhand Chief Secretary of its objection. Subsequently, Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi filed petitions in both the Jharkhand High Court and the Supreme Court, challenging Gupta’s appointment. He alleges the state government bypassed the UPSC panel and made the decision for political reasons, undermining constitutional principles.
The next hearing in the Jharkhand High Court is scheduled for July 15, 2025.
Controversial Past Casts a Shadow
Gupta, a 1990-batch IPS officer, was serving as acting DGP since July 26, 2024, and was officially appointed to the post on February 2, 2025. However, his record includes past allegations such as:
-
Involvement in horse-trading during the 2016 Rajya Sabha elections
-
Disciplinary actions by the Election Commission during the 2019 Lok Sabha and 2024 Jharkhand Assembly elections
Outlook: Court to Have Final Say
While the state insists its rules legally justify the extension, the Centre’s opposition and pending court verdicts will ultimately determine Gupta’s fate. For now, the AG’s move to issue a provisional salary with a recovery clause serves as a temporary administrative compromise, pending a judicial ruling.
